On October 30, 2022, George Strait took the stage at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville to honor the life and music of Loretta Lynn during Coal Miner’s Daughter: A Celebration Of The Life & Music Of Loretta Lynn. It was a night of tribute and tradition. But just over a year later, Strait would find himself reflecting on the meaning of loss in a much more personal way.
On March 20, 2024, George Strait shared heartbreaking news with his fans: his longtime manager and close friend, Erv Woolsey, had passed away following complications from surgery. The two had worked together for over 45 years—a partnership built not only on business, but on deep mutual respect and friendship.
“Erv Woolsey passed away this morning,” Strait wrote in a heartfelt Instagram post. “He was unable to overcome complications from a surgery. He fought valiantly and was a very tough man, but unfortunately, it was simply too much. We will always remember the time we spent together and will miss him terribly. Won’t be the same without him.”
Strait included a photo of the two together—smiling, older, but clearly connected by a shared journey through the country music world.
For George, Erv was more than a manager. He was a guiding presence who helped shape his career, standing by him through decades of change and success. Their relationship was a rare and lasting bond in an industry often marked by constant motion.
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